Obstetric and Gynecology

Gynaecology is concerned with the well-being and health of the female reproductive organs and the ability to reproduce. It includes endocrinology, female urology and pelvic malignancy. The specialty spans paediatric and adolescent gynaecological problems through to later years. In obstetrics most women, although pregnant, are otherwise fit and healthy. However, others will have acute or chronic medical problems that complicate their pregnancy and are under the specific care of an obstetrician. In gynaecology, patients range from those who have chronic disorders which are not life threatening (but interfere significantly with quality of life), to those where an acute emergency presentation is the first indication of a gynaecological problem. OB-GYNs are trained surgeons who can perform a wide range of procedures, including:

• cesarean sections
• instrumental deliveries during childbirth
• a hysterectomy
• removing growths, such as ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids
• surgery to repair pelvic organ injuries

OB-GYNs can also perform a wide range of routine and in-office procedures, including:

• pap smears to test for cervical cancer
• STI tests
• breast examination and breast health management, including other breast cancer screenings
• pelvic ultrasounds to check the pelvic organs and monitor pregnancy
• infertility treatments and counseling
• management of urinary issues, such as urinary tract infections and urinary incontinence
• treating common problems, such as anemia
• Fertility treatments, such as egg retrievals for IVF or egg-freezing